ABC/Ida Mae AstuteRobin Roberts is "rested and rarin' to go."
After abruptly taking time off last month not long after she was diagnosed with a rare blood and bone marrow disorder, prompting concerns about her health, the Good Morning America coanchor returned to the show on Monday and announced she's feeling fit and ready for the battle ahead of her.
"My needle was past 'E' when I left here a couple of weeks ago, but I've got a full tank so watch out," the 51-year-old Roberts told viewers. "I haven't taken this much time off in quite some time."
The GMA cohost later added on Twitter: ""Merry Monday@GMA. Great to be back with George, Sam, Josh, Lara and YOU! Rested and rarin' to go again….you have been warned. :-) xxoo"
Roberts, who was diagnosed earlier this year with the blood disease myelodysplastic syndrome, also confirmed she'll be undergoing a bone marrow transplant on Sept. 5— part of a grueling treatment regimen that also includes chemotherapy.
But in preparation for the operation, Robin unexpectedly took vacation time three weeks ago and traveled to Mississippi to visit her family as well as embarked on a trip to Italy to help celebrate a friend's 50thbirthday party. She also told viewers that while in Rome she was able to gain the Vatican's permission to say a prayer at the same altar the pope uses when he addresses crowds from his balcony.
"I was saying a special prayer for all those who have lifted me up in prayer," she said, adding on Twitter that she was "grateful to Italy for renewing my spirit/soul."
And Roberts also revealed that before she took leave, the doctor removed the catheter she uses for her chemo, which was a blessing.
"Many asking about my PICC line being removed...sweet freedom! Taken out before vaca. Something else will be used for upcoming transplant," the TV veteran tweeted.
Roberts, who's been cohosting Good Morning America since 2005 and has been happy to see her baby overtake the Today show in the ratings, has previously said her MDS was a complication of the chemotherapy and radiation treatments she underwent for breast cancer five years ago.
We're glad to see her back and wish Robin a speedy recovery!